Alison Blass & Aviva Epstein

Allison Blass moved to West Hempstead with her family 11 years ago and joined Congregation Anshei Shalom for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Continuing her family's legacy of shul involvement, Allison immediately became part of the Anshei Sisterhood and Mishloach Manot Committee, where she worked with strong women who were committed to fostering a cohesive, family-friendly shul and community.  After demonstrating her commitment and dedication, she was appointed sisterhood co-president along with Aviva Epstein. 

At the height of Covid, Allison tried to bring women together to reignite a sense of sisterhood and friendship during uncertain times. During this time she also became more involved in the community and added Chessed Committee member, Baby Gemach volunteer, and little league coach to her full plate. Allison is currently the lower school assistant principal at the Schechter School of Long Island in Williston Park Long Island, where she uses her leadership skills to develop and run a successful elementary program that encourages a love of Judaism with high academic expectations.

Aviva Epstein moved to West Hempstead in 2019 with her husband Michael and their growing family. Shortly after settling in, she became a member of Congregation Anshei Shalom, drawn by the warmth and down-to-earth nature of the community. A year later, motivated by a desire to give back, she became Co-President of the Anshei Sisterhood alongside Allison Blass. Together, they served for three years, hosting a series of impactful events that helped attract new members and foster a stronger sense of community. Aviva now serves as co-president of the Mikvah Association of Nassau County (MANC), continuing her passion for community service.

Aviva is a nurse manager with Northwell Health. Her deep commitment to caring for others extends to both her professional and personal life. Raised in Woodmere, Aviva learned the importance of compassion and service from an early age. Michael, her husband, shares these values, offering unwavering dedication to their family and supporting Aviva’s efforts to balance her career and community involvement.

Allison and Aviva would like to take this opportunity and show hakarat hatov to Rabbi Pearl, Rebbetzin Soniker, and Rabbi Soniker for their unwavering guidance and support. It is very clear how deeply they care for the Jewish community. Congregation Anshei Shalom has provided our families with the opportunity to be surrounded by kind, caring, and dedicated individuals who work to inspire and continue to develop a wonderful Jewish community. Our bracha to Rabbi Pearl, Rebbetzin Soniker, and Rabbi Soniker is that Hashem give you the strength to continue your selfless work and inspire generations to come.

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